An international negotiator finds himself squarely in the middle of world events, geopolitical struggles and global intrigue as he pursues oil and gas deals in far-flung and sometimes exotic venues. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, these were heady days for Russia and its neighbors as they collaborated with Western companies to unlock their vast energy potential and transform their economies. In Azerbaijan, for example, great expectations vied with deep-rooted distrust of foreigners, who they feared would steal their oil wealth.

Across the Table comprises a series of real-life behind-the-scenes anecdotes drawn from the career of an international negotiator, together with the negotiations principles, insights and lessons which can be derived from them. In business, and in everyday life, negotiations are almost unavoidable. One can view them with dread or, if properly prepared, as great opportunities.

“Some of the most exciting history of the last quarter century happened around oil negotiation tables in Azerbaijan and Russia. Bill Young had a front row seat as an executive at Amoco, and in this unusually breezy account tells us not only what he witnessed, but the priceless lessons anyone going into high-pressure talks anywhere can well use.”

-Steve LeVine, Washington Correspondent for Quartz and Author of The Oil ﻿and the Glory﻿

“ Across the Table does incredible justice to the subject of negotiating strategies, tactics, and predicaments in some of the most dynamic eras and locations in oil patch history. From ‘The Deal of the Century’ in the wake of the collapse of the Soviet Union to Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa, Bill Young provides a first-hand, personal, and delightful perspective on amazing historical events, challenges, and lessons.”